Binary University has allocated RM60 million to provide Binary-Bakat Desa Scholarships for 800 rural students to pursue higher education, especially in the field of agriculture.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who was represented by Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin at the launch of the scholarship here tonight, said it would enable the rural community to gain better access to the latest technology in agriculture.
"Graduates who get this scholarship have great potential to play an important role in increasing agricultural produce and marketing it more efficiently through the use of the latest technology such as AI (artificial intelligence) smart agriculture and drone technology," he said.
Expressing his appreciation for Binary University's initiative, Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, said it was an important element in the development of the rural sector, which was the core of the country's progress.
"It is not just a financial contribution, but rather a noble effort in creating equal opportunities for students from various backgrounds, including rural students.
"This is in line with the aspirations of the MADANI Economy which strives to provide fair educational opportunities to all levels of society regardless of where they come from," he said, adding that the scholarship could bring great positive changes to the rural community in several aspects, including building a talent pool and encouraging rural entrepreneurship.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency